As temperatures rise in San Antonio, now is the perfect time to prepare your garden for summer — and there’s no better way to do that than by creating a pollinator-friendly garden. Supporting bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators not only enhances the beauty of your yard but also contributes to a healthier environment.
Here’s how you can create a thriving pollinator haven before the summer heat sets in:
1. Choose Native Plants
Native plants are adapted to our local climate and soil, making them an excellent choice for attracting pollinators in San Antonio. They require less water and maintenance, and they provide the nectar and pollen that native pollinators need.
Top choices for San Antonio gardens:
- Milkweed (essential for monarch butterflies)
- Salvia
- Lantana
- Black-eyed Susan
- Gregg’s Mistflower
- Turk’s Cap
2. Plant a Variety of Flowers
Pollinators are active throughout different parts of the season. Plant a variety of flowers that bloom at different times to ensure there’s always a food source available from spring through fall.
Tip: Aim for a mix of flower shapes, sizes, and colors to attract a wider variety of pollinators.
3. Avoid Pesticides
Pesticides, even organic ones, can harm bees and butterflies. Whenever possible, avoid using chemicals in your garden. Instead, practice natural pest control methods like introducing beneficial insects (like ladybugs) or companion planting to keep pests away.
If you must use treatments, apply them early in the morning or late in the evening when pollinators are less active.
4. Provide Water Sources
Pollinators need water too! A shallow water dish, a birdbath, or even a few stones placed in a shallow bowl of water can give bees and butterflies a safe spot to drink.
Pro Tip: Change the water regularly to prevent mosquito breeding.
5. Create Shelter
Pollinators need places to hide from predators and to shelter from the weather. You can help by:
- Leaving some areas of your yard a little “wild”
- Installing a bee hotel
- Planting shrubs or creating small brush piles
These areas offer critical habitat for resting and nesting.
6. Group Plants Together
Mass plantings of the same flower type make it easier for pollinators to locate them. Try planting clusters rather than scattering individual plants across your garden.
Bonus: It also creates a bold, beautiful look in your landscaping!
7. Let Barron Landscaping Help You Build a Pollinator Paradise
Designing a pollinator-friendly garden can seem overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Barron Landscaping, we specialize in creating sustainable, beautiful landscapes that benefit both your home and the environment.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start building a garden that both you and nature will love this summer!